Delicious Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: A Comforting Classic

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish that makes the most of leftover turkey, look no further than this turkey tetrazzini recipe. This creamy pasta dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or holiday leftovers. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and variations to help you create the ultimate turkey tetrazzini.

Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe Ingredients

To make this turkey tetrazzini recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces (225 g) spaghetti or fettuccine (uncooked)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken or turkey broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tetrazzini:

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadcrumbs)

Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken or turkey broth and heavy cream. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
5. Season: Add thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey, peas (if using), and the sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.

Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
2. Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool and Serve: Allow the turkey tetrazzini to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: Cooking Tips

• Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any other occasion.
• Pasta Alternatives: Feel free to substitute the pasta with gluten-free options or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
• Add Vegetables: You can include other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage Advice

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze turkey tetrazzini for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute turkey with cooked chickpeas or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
• Cheesy Delight: Add more cheese varieties like cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.

Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe FAQ

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Absolutely! This tetrazzini recipe works well with chicken, ham, or even seafood like shrimp.

What can I serve with turkey tetrazzini?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Conclusion

This turkey tetrazzini recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re using leftover turkey or cooking from scratch, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results with us!